The death toll from last week’s devastating twin earthquakes in Venezuela has risen to 1,719, with more than 5,340 people injured, according to National Assembly President Jorge Rodríguez.

Rodríguez reported that 611 aftershocks have been recorded since the initial quakes struck on June 24, including a magnitude-4.2 tremor that hit early Monday morning. Emergency rescue and relief operations remain underway as authorities assess the widespread destruction, particularly in coastal areas like La Guaira and parts of Caracas.

The powerful 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude earthquakes, which struck seconds apart, caused extensive damage to buildings and infrastructure. Thousands remain missing, with some reports estimating over 46,000 unaccounted for, as search teams continue pulling survivors from rubble amid ongoing seismic activity.

International aid has begun arriving, with rescue teams from multiple countries joining local efforts. Heartbreaking stories have emerged, including the deaths of family members of Argentine soccer player Lucas Trejo. Miraculous rescues, such as survivors freed after days under debris, continue to offer glimmers of hope.

The quakes, among the strongest to hit Venezuela in over a century, have left thousands homeless and strained the country’s resources. Officials warn that the toll could rise further as more bodies are recovered and assessments of remote areas are completed.

Residents in affected regions are urged to remain vigilant due to the risk of additional aftershocks, while humanitarian needs grow for food, shelter, and medical care. (ILKHA)